Drivers removed hundreds of eels from the road in Indonesia, causing a temporary traffic jam as they worked together to clear the highway.

Footage shows a bed of ray-finned fish scattered across a highway in Tana Toraja Regency, South Sulawesi, on Tuesday, June 17.

Reports said the incident occurred after the cardboard box carrying the creatures on the back of a motorcycle came loose.

The container's ties reportedly snapped, spilling the slippery fish onto the road.

Several kind-hearted drivers and nearby residents immediately stopped to help to collect the eels one by one and place them back into the tub.

Traffic returned to normal once the eels had been safely gathered.

Eels are a common catch in Indonesia and are often transported live for local markets. Known locally as 'belut' these freshwater creatures are a popular ingredient in traditional dishes across the country, valued both for their taste and nutritional benefits.